Yahoo! Games

Josh Norris

Rankings

NFL Draft: Norris' Top 100

Quarterbacks are not just thrown in among other positions; there is a thought process behind their slotting. If I firmly believe a quarterback is a quality starter, they transcend the board and jump to the top. The next tier, which includes prospects I think have a good chance of becoming quality starters, follows first-round talents.

NFL Comparison: Pocket movement and willingness to work through short to intermediate levels displays hints of… Tom Brady. (Credit to Eric Stoner)

Where He Wins: Excellent pocket movement. Bounces off his back foot to step up against edge pressure and isn’t afraid to slide laterally when faced with an interior rush. Keeps eyes up to survey coverages and works to multiple reads. Placement and touch are there, but has the velocity to hit vertical routes on the move. Not afraid to give a covered receiver in single coverage a chance to win. Reports have stated he takes care of many checks at the line of scrimmage.

Where He Fits: He fits any offense. Sustains success from the pocket but also has mobility which isn’t showcased often. Hits every level with placement and timing.

2014 Draft Projection: It depends on how real the criticisms and critiques of size and frame are. Will be a top three QB.

Where He Wins: Predominantly lines up at right defensive end in a three-point stance as a five, seven, or nine technique. His explosion off the snap is ridiculous, gaining an instant advantage against his competition. Obviously the swarming wingspan and closing speed is there, and he enjoys finishing hits with force. Has frequently taken the inside line this year, likely due to the shorter distance to the backfield. Loves to utilize an arm over swim and athletic footwork is on displays when avoiding cut blocks. Loops inside with ease. A rare power and speed athlete.

Where He Fits: Most experience in a four man front, but his talent could be used in any defensive scheme.

Where He Wins: Displays a unique combination of size and strength. Has quickness to get underneath an offensive lineman’s pads and then use his strength to drive that lineman into the backfield. Controls run blockers, maintaining outside leverage and resetting the line of scrimmage. Has enough athleticism to be a factor in coverage and can avoid cut blocks.

Where He Fits: As a stand up weakside pass rusher alongside a three man line or could play a strong side linebacker in a 4-3 under.

Where He Wins: The combination of burst and smooth movements in and out of his breaks or after catch moves is great. Hands catcher away from his body. An explosive player with the ball in his hands, gets up to high gear very quickly. Will go across the middle and catch passes in tight windows. Cuts routes off very quickly. Has balance to stay up beyond first defender. Wins from slot or outside.

Where He Fits: Will help in a variety of ways, including yards after the catch, vertical routes, and in the return game.

Draft Projection: Expected to be the first receiver off the board, unless a team goes for a taller target who specializes winning at the catch point. Top-10.

Where He Wins: Doesn’t sit back and wait, finds contact through his hands and is an aggressive blocker. Obtains inside hand positioning and adjusts if necessary. Athletic feet to keep proper shoulder alignment, which prevents bending from the waist. Displays ability to bend at the knee to absorb and redirect. Sets up cut blocks and drives through with force. Moving from right to left tackle.

Where He Fits: Has experience and played at a high level at left or right tackle. If a team wants him at center they will not get him.

Where He Wins: An absolute mauler of a run blocker. His power is ridiculous. Can dominate even the strongest of defensive linemen with leverage and brute force. Is a very good athlete for his size, and that is evident while playing in space. Opens a clear road when asked to crash down or get to the second level. Powerful hands.

Where He Fits: Still a bit inexperienced as a pass protector on an island, which is evident with flashes of waist bending, but he has the athleticism to fix it. Can play on the left or right side.

Where He Wins: Very little wasted movement. Lines up as inside linebacker behind three and four man fronts. Has so much range, chases down athletic quarterbacks to the edge. Same range is visible in pass coverage. Contacts crossing routes and keeps footwork to sustain and trail. Works over top of blocks with quick steps. Keeps nice vision at the second level by strafing then attacks uphill. Will finish tackles.

Where He Fits: Has transitioned from a coverage linebacker to the complete package. Scheme versatile at inside linebacker. Could potentially see time on the weakside.

Draft Projection: Very dependent on how teams react to his injury history. Top-20.

Where He Wins: Easley’s success inside compared to when on the edge is a no contest. His quickness to force his opposition off balance or shoot face up gaps causes instant disruption, displaying active hands to keep separation and a forward momentum. He impacts games when gaining promising positioning.

Where He Fits: Everywhere. Has experience as a five technique end but thrived in a one or zero technique role this season. Could be a disrupting, upfield nose tackle.

Draft Projection: This is difficult. Easley is a top-10 talent but has two ACL tears to his name on opposite knees. Played at a high level this season after the first one. I still think top-40, like Cornelius “Tank” Carradine.

Where He Wins: Has excellent length for the position. Controlled aggressiveness when closing towards the line of scrimmage. Not a watcher, he gets in the action. Reads run and reacts quickly, even from single high. Has seen time from free or strong safety. Capable in playing man and zone situations, either near or off the line of scrimmage. A really, really good safety.

Where He Fits: A likely interchangeable safety that can play near the line of scrimmage or in the deep half.

Where He Wins: Lines up as a nose tackle or shade in a three man front. Can work over top of a block and create penetration at the same time. Stops momentum very quickly and changes direction well for a big man. Has the leg drive to penetrate face up and strength to shed it close spaces. Can disrupt the run upfield or hold his spot with anchor versus the run. Has some Vince Wilfork to him.

Where He Fits: Likely a one or zero shade in a three man front, but don’t rule him out of four man fronts.

Draft Projection: Was a letdown at times this season, mostly due to injury, but likely top-32. Possible top 15.

Where He Wins: Absolutely dominant at the catch point. Wins on the edge with long speed, excellent body control, strong hands, and high pointing ability. When he is covered he is still open. Winning in these situations might be more important than separation at the NFL level.

Where He Fits: Outside receiver with a quarterback who is not afraid to test tight single coverage.

Draft Projection: First-round and would not be shocked if he is the first receiver off the board.

Where He Wins: Excellent burst off the line to play on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Despite size knocks, he has good length and active hands. Able to get skinny to work through gaps and trash. Closing quickness is there to make tackles for loss.

Where He Fits: Obvious nickel or dime rusher, but likely not limited to that. He disrupts fronts. Could see him lining up in a variety of sub-package sets at 1, 3, or 5 technique.

Where He Wins: Sutton takes advantage of space. Whether it be shooting past reach blocks in the sliver of time afforded to him thanks to an animated first step and forward lean, or hand use and quick feet to generate that separation on his own, Sutton finishes with closing speed. His flexibility to bend and gain positive positioning is tough to find.

Where He Fits: Likely as a three technique in a four man front, could play some in pass rushing situations.

Draft Projection: Too much has been made about his added weight. He isn’t a different player. The foundation of Sutton’s game was never quickness, it was leverage and technical hand use. Still, he will get knocked for lack of size or added weight. Top-64.

NFL Comparison: Does some Jimmy Graham-like things, but more along the lines of what many want Vance McDonald to be.

Where He Wins: A matchup nightmare. Uses his frame against corners and safeties to gain a positional advantage. Can do the same with safeties while creating space with fluid routes. An easy mover against linebackers. Has always been a willing blocker in space, but he has added an inline blocking element to his game. Getting stronger at the catch point when climbing the ladder. Presents some yards after catch skills.

Where He Fits: A receiving tight end in 12 personnel. Can play out on the edge, in the slot, and has added an inline blocking element to his game.

Draft Projection: Suffered a major injury in 2012, but I expect a top-32 selection.

Where He Wins: An outstanding straight-line athlete with some bend/flexibility for his size. Will stretch defenses and then cut his route back to the quarterback. Presents a big target and can separate after the catch. Improving consistency at the catch point and a willing blocker.

Where He Fits: An inline option who can be split out to matchup with different defenders.

Where He Wins: Long and lean. Projects to weakside linebacker. His speed to the edge is excellent. There are some wasted movements when working the backside, but once the target and ally are located he gets there in a hurry. Zone drops are smooth. Asked to blitz from inside and on the edge. Takes tight angles into the backfield on edge runs.

Where He Fits: Likely as a weakside linebacker who will stay on in nickel situations.

Where He Wins: Mainly an outside receiver but has seen snaps in the slot. An excellent intermediate to downfield threat, but likely has the skills near the LOS. He just was not used there. The downfield routes are not usually go or straight-line patterns, instead most of his success comes off breaks. Has quickness and explosion to his game, but does not mind winning at the catch point in contested situations.

Where He Fits: Shines on inside and outside breaking routes, like posts and corners, and also works towards his quarterback.

Draft Projection: Would be surprised if he is not the third WR off the board.

Where He Wins: Great burst off the snap and explosion upfield. Bends very well around the corner once beating offensive lineman's depth. Has also displayed hand use, leverage, and strength to keep his opposition on skates. The Texas A&M game shows the complete package.

Where He Fits: Line him up wide and let him run, likely as a 7 or 9 technique. Stance (stand up or three-point) does not matter to me.

Where He Wins: The lightning-quick pass rusher is able to gain an advantage on the edge and keep it thanks to his burst off the line, ability to cut off either foot towards the quarterback, and flexibility to bend around the corner. He closes distances quickly, which can be effective from a variety of alignments, and Barr is a punishing finisher.

Where He Fits: Experience as a stand up rusher next to a three man front. Able to loop inside.

Where He Wins: Held up at tackle well this season and during Senior Bowl week. Hands are so strong to prevent inside moves or latch on and control at the point of attack. Willing to sustain blocks with position and leg drive.

Where He Fits: Can make a good tackle but an outstanding guard. Wide base can be troublesome against agile edge rushers who weave inside and out.

Draft Projection: Has a legitimate chance to be the third offensive lineman selected. Likely as a tackle.

Quarterbacks are not just thrown in among other positions; there is a thought process behind their slotting. If I firmly believe a quarterback is a quality starter, they transcend the board and jump to the top. The next tier, which includes prospects I think have a good chance of becoming quality starters, follows first-round talents.

NFL Comparison: Pocket movement and willingness to work through short to intermediate levels displays hints of… Tom Brady. (Credit to Eric Stoner)

Where He Wins: Excellent pocket movement. Bounces off his back foot to step up against edge pressure and isn’t afraid to slide laterally when faced with an interior rush. Keeps eyes up to survey coverages and works to multiple reads. Placement and touch are there, but has the velocity to hit vertical routes on the move. Not afraid to give a covered receiver in single coverage a chance to win. Reports have stated he takes care of many checks at the line of scrimmage.

Where He Fits: He fits any offense. Sustains success from the pocket but also has mobility which isn’t showcased often. Hits every level with placement and timing.

2014 Draft Projection: It depends on how real the criticisms and critiques of size and frame are. Will be a top three QB.

Where He Wins: Predominantly lines up at right defensive end in a three-point stance as a five, seven, or nine technique. His explosion off the snap is ridiculous, gaining an instant advantage against his competition. Obviously the swarming wingspan and closing speed is there, and he enjoys finishing hits with force. Has frequently taken the inside line this year, likely due to the shorter distance to the backfield. Loves to utilize an arm over swim and athletic footwork is on displays when avoiding cut blocks. Loops inside with ease. A rare power and speed athlete.

Where He Fits: Most experience in a four man front, but his talent could be used in any defensive scheme.

Where He Wins: Displays a unique combination of size and strength. Has quickness to get underneath an offensive lineman’s pads and then use his strength to drive that lineman into the backfield. Controls run blockers, maintaining outside leverage and resetting the line of scrimmage. Has enough athleticism to be a factor in coverage and can avoid cut blocks.

Where He Fits: As a stand up weakside pass rusher alongside a three man line or could play a strong side linebacker in a 4-3 under.

Where He Wins: The combination of burst and smooth movements in and out of his breaks or after catch moves is great. Hands catcher away from his body. An explosive player with the ball in his hands, gets up to high gear very quickly. Will go across the middle and catch passes in tight windows. Cuts routes off very quickly. Has balance to stay up beyond first defender. Wins from slot or outside.

Where He Fits: Will help in a variety of ways, including yards after the catch, vertical routes, and in the return game.

Draft Projection: Expected to be the first receiver off the board, unless a team goes for a taller target who specializes winning at the catch point. Top-10.

Where He Wins: Doesn’t sit back and wait, finds contact through his hands and is an aggressive blocker. Obtains inside hand positioning and adjusts if necessary. Athletic feet to keep proper shoulder alignment, which prevents bending from the waist. Displays ability to bend at the knee to absorb and redirect. Sets up cut blocks and drives through with force. Moving from right to left tackle.

Where He Fits: Has experience and played at a high level at left or right tackle. If a team wants him at center they will not get him.

Where He Wins: An absolute mauler of a run blocker. His power is ridiculous. Can dominate even the strongest of defensive linemen with leverage and brute force. Is a very good athlete for his size, and that is evident while playing in space. Opens a clear road when asked to crash down or get to the second level. Powerful hands.

Where He Fits: Still a bit inexperienced as a pass protector on an island, which is evident with flashes of waist bending, but he has the athleticism to fix it. Can play on the left or right side.

Where He Wins: Very little wasted movement. Lines up as inside linebacker behind three and four man fronts. Has so much range, chases down athletic quarterbacks to the edge. Same range is visible in pass coverage. Contacts crossing routes and keeps footwork to sustain and trail. Works over top of blocks with quick steps. Keeps nice vision at the second level by strafing then attacks uphill. Will finish tackles.

Where He Fits: Has transitioned from a coverage linebacker to the complete package. Scheme versatile at inside linebacker. Could potentially see time on the weakside.

Draft Projection: Very dependent on how teams react to his injury history. Top-20.

Where He Wins: Easley’s success inside compared to when on the edge is a no contest. His quickness to force his opposition off balance or shoot face up gaps causes instant disruption, displaying active hands to keep separation and a forward momentum. He impacts games when gaining promising positioning.

Where He Fits: Everywhere. Has experience as a five technique end but thrived in a one or zero technique role this season. Could be a disrupting, upfield nose tackle.

Draft Projection: This is difficult. Easley is a top-10 talent but has two ACL tears to his name on opposite knees. Played at a high level this season after the first one. I still think top-40, like Cornelius “Tank” Carradine.

Where He Wins: Has excellent length for the position. Controlled aggressiveness when closing towards the line of scrimmage. Not a watcher, he gets in the action. Reads run and reacts quickly, even from single high. Has seen time from free or strong safety. Capable in playing man and zone situations, either near or off the line of scrimmage. A really, really good safety.

Where He Fits: A likely interchangeable safety that can play near the line of scrimmage or in the deep half.

Where He Wins: Lines up as a nose tackle or shade in a three man front. Can work over top of a block and create penetration at the same time. Stops momentum very quickly and changes direction well for a big man. Has the leg drive to penetrate face up and strength to shed it close spaces. Can disrupt the run upfield or hold his spot with anchor versus the run. Has some Vince Wilfork to him.

Where He Fits: Likely a one or zero shade in a three man front, but don’t rule him out of four man fronts.

Draft Projection: Was a letdown at times this season, mostly due to injury, but likely top-32. Possible top 15.

Where He Wins: Absolutely dominant at the catch point. Wins on the edge with long speed, excellent body control, strong hands, and high pointing ability. When he is covered he is still open. Winning in these situations might be more important than separation at the NFL level.

Where He Fits: Outside receiver with a quarterback who is not afraid to test tight single coverage.

Draft Projection: First-round and would not be shocked if he is the first receiver off the board.

Where He Wins: Excellent burst off the line to play on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Despite size knocks, he has good length and active hands. Able to get skinny to work through gaps and trash. Closing quickness is there to make tackles for loss.

Where He Fits: Obvious nickel or dime rusher, but likely not limited to that. He disrupts fronts. Could see him lining up in a variety of sub-package sets at 1, 3, or 5 technique.

Where He Wins: Sutton takes advantage of space. Whether it be shooting past reach blocks in the sliver of time afforded to him thanks to an animated first step and forward lean, or hand use and quick feet to generate that separation on his own, Sutton finishes with closing speed. His flexibility to bend and gain positive positioning is tough to find.

Where He Fits: Likely as a three technique in a four man front, could play some in pass rushing situations.

Draft Projection: Too much has been made about his added weight. He isn’t a different player. The foundation of Sutton’s game was never quickness, it was leverage and technical hand use. Still, he will get knocked for lack of size or added weight. Top-64.

NFL Comparison: Does some Jimmy Graham-like things, but more along the lines of what many want Vance McDonald to be.

Where He Wins: A matchup nightmare. Uses his frame against corners and safeties to gain a positional advantage. Can do the same with safeties while creating space with fluid routes. An easy mover against linebackers. Has always been a willing blocker in space, but he has added an inline blocking element to his game. Getting stronger at the catch point when climbing the ladder. Presents some yards after catch skills.

Where He Fits: A receiving tight end in 12 personnel. Can play out on the edge, in the slot, and has added an inline blocking element to his game.

Draft Projection: Suffered a major injury in 2012, but I expect a top-32 selection.

Where He Wins: An outstanding straight-line athlete with some bend/flexibility for his size. Will stretch defenses and then cut his route back to the quarterback. Presents a big target and can separate after the catch. Improving consistency at the catch point and a willing blocker.

Where He Fits: An inline option who can be split out to matchup with different defenders.

Where He Wins: Long and lean. Projects to weakside linebacker. His speed to the edge is excellent. There are some wasted movements when working the backside, but once the target and ally are located he gets there in a hurry. Zone drops are smooth. Asked to blitz from inside and on the edge. Takes tight angles into the backfield on edge runs.

Where He Fits: Likely as a weakside linebacker who will stay on in nickel situations.

Where He Wins: Mainly an outside receiver but has seen snaps in the slot. An excellent intermediate to downfield threat, but likely has the skills near the LOS. He just was not used there. The downfield routes are not usually go or straight-line patterns, instead most of his success comes off breaks. Has quickness and explosion to his game, but does not mind winning at the catch point in contested situations.

Where He Fits: Shines on inside and outside breaking routes, like posts and corners, and also works towards his quarterback.

Draft Projection: Would be surprised if he is not the third WR off the board.

Where He Wins: Great burst off the snap and explosion upfield. Bends very well around the corner once beating offensive lineman's depth. Has also displayed hand use, leverage, and strength to keep his opposition on skates. The Texas A&M game shows the complete package.

Where He Fits: Line him up wide and let him run, likely as a 7 or 9 technique. Stance (stand up or three-point) does not matter to me.

Where He Wins: The lightning-quick pass rusher is able to gain an advantage on the edge and keep it thanks to his burst off the line, ability to cut off either foot towards the quarterback, and flexibility to bend around the corner. He closes distances quickly, which can be effective from a variety of alignments, and Barr is a punishing finisher.

Where He Fits: Experience as a stand up rusher next to a three man front. Able to loop inside.

Where He Wins: Held up at tackle well this season and during Senior Bowl week. Hands are so strong to prevent inside moves or latch on and control at the point of attack. Willing to sustain blocks with position and leg drive.

Where He Fits: Can make a good tackle but an outstanding guard. Wide base can be troublesome against agile edge rushers who weave inside and out.

Draft Projection: Has a legitimate chance to be the third offensive lineman selected. Likely as a tackle.

NFL Comparison: Michael Brockers with less of a natural anchor but more pass rush upside.

Where He Wins: Predominantly used as a 1/0 technique this season. Obviously has a natural anchor. Improving hand use to create separation. Flashes of good athleticism for someone his size. Has the necessary power and leg drive to keep his opposition off balance.

Where He Fits: Appears his career can be taken on one two ways, either as a 1 in an even front or 5 technique in an odd front. I bet he will test well at the Combine, leading many to pick the latter, but I prefer him inside. Needs to deliver a consistent initial punch.

Where He Wins: Wide stance, wants to find contact through his hands. Has an aggressive mentality, but that can get him in trouble. Even if positioning is off balance, his strong base helps anchor and stop momentum. Better run blocker than pass protector, but wins when gaining a latch in either situation. Asked to pull inside and lead blocks well.

Where He Wins: An extremely physical corner who loves to press at the line of scrimmage. Frequently patient with his jam, not overextending but rather allowing the receiver to enter contact area. Rides inside hip downfield while sustaining position. Hand fights and flips his head quickly when receiver looks back for the football at the top of their route.

Where He Fits: Press corner or a few yards off on the edge. Will be physical in run support. Matches up at the catch point in contested situations which is critical.

Draft Projection: Top-32 pick, depends on when the run on corners starts.

Where He Wins: Active player who doesn’t wait to react. Keeps close trailing distance and makes tackles for a loss on crossing routes by forcing receivers back. Quick in his movements once diagnosing and locating. Has great vision, baits quarterbacks from off man with success. Coverage versatile. Hides blitz very well.

Where He Fits: Plays a lot of off coverage, but that doesn’t mean he lacks physical play. Best role will likely be as a slot corner.

NFL Comparison: Alterraun Verner, but a better tackler and run defender.

Where He Wins: I like everything about Fuller’s game. He is a very fluid mover to stick with receivers downfield, despite some unique movements and turns. A very, very good run defender for the position, which he showed while playing a Whip linebacker role against Georgia Tech. Does not mind carrying that physicality over to covering receivers.

Where He Fits: Played a large amount of coverage 6-10 yards off WRs (nearly 57 percent of snaps), but I think he can play press very effectively. Flashed it when asked to do so. Unafraid of lining up over slot targets and attacks the catch point from a variety of alignments.

Draft Projection: Medicals cut his 2013 season short and missed the Senior Bowl because of it, but he is a first-round talent.

Where He Wins: Attacks the jam or blocking receiver, frequently gets into the action. Will play off or press man coverage, attacks the catch point by cutting in front of the target. Even plays on special teams. Trails in close distances and prevents the sliver of separation at the catch point. Makes things difficult on the opposition.

Where He Fits: Not locked into one side of the field. Likely better in press due to physical nature, but shows he can attack and drive in off coverage.

Where He Wins: An explosive receiver that wins at every level of the field. Can take short passes for long gains after creating even more separation. Creates space on intermediate patterns. Tracks vertical passes exceptionally well. Takes the top off coverages. Has a large catch radius for someone his size.

Where He Fits: Some might only see a slot receiver, but he’s an accomplished edge target as well.

Where He Wins: Line him up wide as a 7 or 9 and let him run to a spot in the backfield. Explosive off the snap and can win around the corner, on inside moves, or when engaging into the opponents’ chest.

Where He Fits: Many will attempt to project him to an outside linebacker role and drop Attaochu into coverage. I do not see it. He played that role through his junior season, but was so much better as a senior with limited responsibilities in a disruption role.

Where He Wins: Wearing down defenses with tempo. A master of broken plays. Stretches teams laterally with his feet. Forces defenses to match up with quick passes followed by elongated plays with little time to rest in between.

Where He Fits: Has shown development from the pocket, but could thrive in a creative system. Thrives on broken plays. Drops his eye level, but can magically find open space and available passing lanes to connect on ridiculous completions. Will test tight single coverage. Gives his receiver a shot. Can also be a quick decision maker, which is key to Air Raid. Has made more throws outside the numbers and downfield this season. Obviously extremely mobile.

Where He Wins: Strong pocket mover results in handling pressure others might fold under. Not afraid to work through multiple reads and multiple levels of the field. Spent a lot of time in shotgun, but throws from multiple arm angles. Does not hesitate when throwing to covered receivers to let them win at the catch point.

Where He Fits: Velocity has dropped since 2012, and I am not sure why. With that said, I don’t think he has limitations in terms of an offense in the NFL.

Where He Wins: Has an incredible arm, not only when discussing velocity but also touch. Is forced to throw a lot of screens, but flashes upside as a vertical passer when given the opportunity. Shows athleticism when scrambling outside of the pocket. Aren’t many windows he can’t test.

Where He Fits: Doesn’t always throw from a balanced base but has improved willingness to take a hit on release.

Where He Wins: Has very good backfield vision and ball awareness to work through blocks and make a play on ball carriers. Comfortable in zone coverage to work off one receiver and close on another. Very good tackler, takes solid pursuit angles and closes assertively but not uncontrollably. Does not mind slowing down smaller slot receivers or contending with tight ends downfield.

Where He Fits: Works his way closer to the line of scrimmage, creeping up to cover inside targets. Does very well to keep everything in front when playing that role, but can also turn and run and stick with breaking routes in man coverage. Can absolutely play that third S role early on.

Where He Wins: Has great balance, rarely on the ground. Does not possess a punishing first punch, but certainly has the movement skills to mirror defensive linemen and is active when looking for rushers.

Where He Fits: Has experience at tackle but should play guard at the next level.

Where He Wins: Has a great first punch and an athletic lower half to mirror pass rushers on the edge or prevent them from working inside. That athleticism and length will prevent him from being knocked for lack of ideal height. Can bend at the knee, absorb and redirect momentum. Has enough of a grip to keep opponent latched when initial line is thwarted.

Where He Fits: I can see Thomas as a tackle or guard. Has shown the ability to work in tight spaces, but also did a great job on an island against Clowney.

Draft Projection: Might sneak into the late first-round, but most likely a top-50 pick.

Where He Wins: Long, lean strider. Best as a straight-line receiver. Doesn't mind chipping the edge when in motion or finishing off runs with low shoulder. Obvious burst of quickness in first or second step, then it builds after that. Lines up in the slot and outside, smooth runner in his breaks to avoid contact. Frequently sent in motion. Hands catcher. Can make people miss in the open field, but doesn't have outstanding lateral agility.

Where He Fits: Likely outside receiver who gets vertical with fluid routes and long speed. Can easily peel back patterns and create separation when working towards the quarterback.

Draft Projection: Has dealt with injuries, drops, and bad quarterback play this year. Still a top-40 selection.

Where He Wins: Huge frame and length to win at the catch point in contested situations. Very good body control to slow down, time catch, and contort frame to haul in a catch. Long strides allow him to get downfield. Unafraid to work across the middle on deep posts. Able to make adjustments with the ball in the air that other receivers can’t. Displays strength after the catch.

Where He Fits: Can dominate in the red zone, on vertical passes, and with strength on slants. Mainly an outside receiver.

Draft Projection: Needs to improve consistencies in the form of drops, but he and Mike Evans could draw similar interest.

Where He Wins: Displays good speed when running down the seam. Has flashed winning with breaking routes or bodying defensive backs at the catch point. A very good blocker for the position.

Where He Fits: It is difficult to project Niklas right now. First, his best trait is blocking. He was kept in during pass protection situations because of it. But receiving and complete TE skills are there.

Where He Wins: Displays enough agility to be detached from the line of scrimmage but also can in inline. Has the body control to win at the catch point. Movement skills are there to win in the short and intermediate areas. Can be a more than adequate blocker when willing.

Where He Wins: The more I watched the Cardinal, the more I liked him. Not only can he bend around tackles, Smith loves to chase from the backside and converts speed to power with good length and hand use. I know I keep bringing up hands and technical skill, but it really does set great rushers that can win on counter moves apart from good ones that have one trick.

Where He Fits: Like Attaochu, I don’t care how Smith lines up as much as where. He can stand up or play in a sub-package, hand in the dirt pass rushing role.

Where He Wins: Closing speed is outstanding. Much more physical than many prospects his size, strong finisher. Has enough trail speed to stick with crossing routes and has a knack for undercutting the receiver. Has enough length to fight off blocks. Attacks the downhill gaps to make tackles for loss.

Where He Fits: I read a lot of evaluators wanting to move Smith to safety, further away from the football. Why? I disagree with this idea. I think Smith can thrive as a nickel backer early in his career. 2) We get too focused on fitting prospects into position labels rather than focusing on responsibilities.

Where He Wins: Very adept at finding the football and attacking the catch point. Worked in off and press coverage. Good at mirroring receivers movements, handles stems and seems to understand alignment tells. A very aggressive corner who competes with the ball in the air and is usually in position to do so.

Where He Fits: Does not seem to be scheme specific. Has also spent time as boundary and field corner.

Where He Wins: Does occasionally bend at the waist but is athletic enough to recover and regain balance. Best when keeping separation thanks to great length. Can get a bit short in his drops, but again, has the athletic lower half to react and keep positioning. Better in pass protection than run blocking.

Where He Fits: Likely left tackle but could start on the right side as well. The two aren’t so different anymore.

Draft Projection: Has shown weaknesses this season, mainly in the form of overextension or slow feet off the snap, but talent is there. Combine medicals were reportedly an issue. Top-64.

Where He Wins: Can be very disruptive when gaining the momentum and balance advantage from the 1/0. Drives interior OL back and has quick feet to make a play in the backfield once creating the operable space. Much better when working upfield. Loves to utilize a pull and swim motion.

Where He Fits: I do not like Jernigan’s game from the 3 technique and/or when he is asked to work around blockers rather than through them. Run defense is hit or miss. I would rather he become an upfield disruptor close to the center.

Where He Wins: Majority of sacks came on a bull rush. Understands getting his hands up to deflect if path to QB is blocked. Has good movement skills to take advantage of space or gaps in offensive line. Think he will win most consistently as an interior rusher in sub-packages rather than sticking on the outside.

Where He Fits: Plenty have mentioned that Ealy could stand up next to a three man front. I prefer him as an edge rusher who works inside, but stronger punch and leg drive could help with edge push.

Draft Projection: His 3-cone time meeting the threshold is throwing me off a bit and is the main reason I think he’ll be successful. Top-40 pick, but could go top-20.

Where He Wins: Easy to like when he locks out, extends and controls with a strong grip. Attempts to consistently find contact through hands, which helps him mirror. Has strong inside arm bar to prevent tighter lines. Has plenty of arm length and uses it.

Where He Wins: Very strong hands in contested situations. Outstanding body control to come down with adjusted catches. Made a large portion of his catches between 6-10 yards, 30 percent. Will get physical with DBs and does not have to actually be open to be open. Finds soft areas in coverage very well.

Where He Fits: Likely best as a slot receiver. Not really the quick twitch type, but can be very productive.

Draft Projection: Could get Andre Ellington’d because of 4.77 forty. Has plenty of talent, but that run and NFL’s reaction could land him in the third or fourth.

Where He Wins: Power rusher who wins through his blocker. Deliver a strong punch with extension to keep them off balance and on skates. Can shed after generating depth. Powerful finisher and strong run defender thanks to his ability to shed. Obtains backfield vision well.

Where He Fits: Does not bend well, so straight-line assignments and responsibilities will be best.

Draft Projection: Possible end of the first-rounder. Second-round is more likely.

Where He Wins: Two different players in college. Has a beefed up end in an odd front, he used strength to keep opposition off balance and create upfield penetration. As a smaller player on the edge of an even front, he displayed burst and quick hands. Loved to take the inside move.

Where He Fits: Career can be taken two ways: back to bigger down lineman, as a freshman, or stick with an edge rushing role, possible as a stand up rusher. Needs to learn to use his hands better on the outside.

Draft Projection: I have no clue. A safe bet would be third day pick. Fit will be critical.

Where He Wins: Frequently double teamed this season, but did well to hold up at the point of attack with a lower base and hand use. Does very well to lift his opponent’s extended hands and make the most of that created separation. His forward momentum is tough to anchor against.

Where He Fits: Has lined up in a variety of alignments in multiple fronts, including the 1, 3, and 5 tech.

Where He Wins: Functional strength. Bad technique and bad posture, but he makes it work with a strong latch and an ability to control defenders close to his body. A good athlete with movement skills for his size. A real mauler on the field.

Where He Fits: Could play tackle, but I wouldn’t be surprised if his offensive line coach gets fed up with technique issues and moves him to guard.

Draft Projection: Could see him selected in the second-round due to “upside.” Top 75 for sure.

Where He Wins: Best at attacking the shorter routes. Outside of allowing a few receivers to run by him, he is very consistent beyond 10 yards. Good at mirroring routes before flipping his hips and turning with receivers.

Where He Fits: Fairly even mix of press and off coverage. In fact, he played strictly press man more often than many other corners in this class.

Where He Wins: The most decisive runner in this class. Puts his foot in the ground and gets up field immediately. Vision is there. Flashes of breaking first contact. Plenty of experience in pass protection and is an adequate receiver.

Where He Fits: Best in a heavy zone scheme, but should not be limited to that. Pass protection ability should allow him to play early.

Draft Projection: Should be a top three running back selected, although it is kind of a “flavor” position.

Where He Wins: Was not targeted very often as a corner, but also had a high burn rate when he was thrown at in man coverage (around 55 percent). That is high for a corner but good for a safety. Did not allow a single catch over 20 yards as a corner in 2013.

Where He Fits: I prefer him as a safety who might be able to walk down in sub packages.

Draft Projection: Second- or third-round, depending if a team selects him as a safety.

Where He Wins: Closing speed is outstanding. Can locate and chase down with ease. Fairly sound in coverage at the position as well. Plays bigger than size. Does not mind knifing through gaps for tackles for loss.

Where He Wins: Has very good length and flashes hand use. On-field movement skills are much better than tested times. Flashes some bend as well to turn the corner. Powerful finisher. Quick moves to beat extended tackles inside.

Where He Fits: Could see him down in an even front or standing up next to a three man line.

Where He Wins: Very athletic lower half. More of an occupier than power blocker, but it works for him. Bends at the knees and ankles to absorb momentum and redirect it. That compensates for lack of upper body strength.

Where He Fits: Could see him as a guard or tackle, but I prefer him at the former. Rushers with a head of steam tend to get under his pads and generate initial push.

Where He Wins: Not the mauler some make him out to be, but he has a strong latch and can put defenders on their back if they get off balance. Fairly flexible and can absorb momentum thanks to his size.